Women and Heart Disease

Heart disease. For some reason, it’s often thought of as a man’s disease. Yet, heart disease is the number one killer of American women. In fact, it kills more women each year than the next three causes combined, including all forms of cancer. The good news is that heart disease IS preventable.

The Scary Statistics

Heart disease kills more women than men.

One woman dies of heart disease every minute.

64 percent of women who died suddenly from coronary heart disease had no previous symptoms.

Women have higher rates of death and heart failure after having a heart attack than men.

Risk Factors You Can Change

Smoking

High blood pressure

High cholesterol

Lack of physical activity

Stress

Obesity

Risk Factors You Cannot Change

Family history of heart disease

Diabetes

Post-menopausal

How to Reduce Your Risks

If you’re a smoker, the most important thing you can do for your health is to quit.

Eat a diet high in vegetables, fruits and fiber.

Get moving! Exercise, even starting with an easy walk, is key to improving your health.

Symptoms of a Heart Attack

Did you know that heart attack symptoms in women can be very different than in men? That “elephant on your chest” sensation is often not a symptom women experience. In fact, symptoms in women can be subtle and “come and go.” Symptoms may include:

Chest pressure

Shortness of breath

Pain in the upper back, shoulders, neck or jaw

Feelings of anxiety

Fatigue or weakness

Flu-like symptoms: nausea, cold sweats

What Should You Do?

It’s always better to be safe than sorry! If you are experiencing these symptoms – even if you’re uncertain or the symptoms are not severe – call 911 immediately. Dismissing the symptoms can delay lifesaving actions!

Take charge of your health. Talk with your physician or healthcare provider about your risk of heart disease.